Chief Nwabali Returns to Chippa United: Eagles goalkeeper given hero's welcome by fans

Izuchukwu Akawor 14:17 - 28 February 2024

Stanley Nwabali in a warm embrace with fans after he returned to Chippa United. (Photo Credit: Chippa United/X)

Super Eagles AFCON hero Stanley Nwabali has rejoined his PSL club Chippa United.

Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali returned home to a hero's welcome at South African club Chippa United this week after his starring performances at the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that Nwabali delivered an outstanding performance to inspire the Super Eagles to a silver medal against Cote d’Ivoire.

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Nwabali returns to Chippa

Nwabali was instrumental between the sticks as the Super Eagles reached the AFCON final in February, enhancing his reputation as one of Africa's top shot-stoppers.

Although he narrowly missed out on the Golden Glove award, Nwabali's exploits have earned him celebrity status across Nigeria for keeping the Super Eagles in several tight games.

Stanley Nwabali in action at the AFCON 2023. || Image Credit: Imago

His club Chippa United captured the mood by tweeting "He's back" alongside photos of Nwabali being mobbed by delighted fans upon his return to Port Elizabeth.

The 27-year-old shot-stopper has established himself as a firm favourite at Chippa since joining them 18 months ago from the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL.

Fans welcome Stanley Nwabali at Port Elizabeth. (Photo Credit: Chippa United/X)

Nwabali will now aim to translate his international form into helping Chippa challenge in the South African Premier Soccer League when domestic action resumes this weekend.

The club has failed to win any of their last three matches and the Super Eagles will hope to help end a run of two defeats and a draw when they travel to Stellenbosh next.